Coca-Cola Foodmarks 2.0 Debuts At NRAI Food Delivery Summit 2025

Coca-Cola India announced its partnership with the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) at the 4th Edition of the NRAI Food Delivery Summit 2025, held at Le Meridien, New Delhi. This collaboration marks the official launch of Coca-Cola Foodmarks 2.0, an initiative that celebrates India’s most iconic culinary destinations. Each foodmark spotlights places where the perfect meal, the perfect moment, and an ice-cold Coca-Cola come together to create unforgettable food landmarks.

Inspired by culture and powered by the Real Magic of Coca-Cola, Foodmarks 2.0 is built on the successful collaborations with legendary establishments like Paradise in Hyderabad and Embassy in Delhi’s Connaught Place. Creating moments of connection, culture, and refreshment, Coca-Cola and NRAI are scaling the program to new heights by collaborating with India’s most loved restaurants to drive culinary discovery and enrich India's food culture. This initiative not only strengthens industry partnerships but also opens new avenues for restaurants to become part of India’s evolving cultural narrative.

Abhishek Gupta, Chief Customer Officer, Coca-Cola India said “This partnership with NRAI reflects our commitment to building platforms that drive growth for India’s restaurant industry. Foodmarks 2.0 turns iconic dining experiences into cultural destinations, fueled by the Real Magic of connection and discovery. At the core of every Foodmark is the simple pleasure of a hot meal, shared with an ice-cold Coca-Cola. Together, we are creating new opportunities for restaurants to become landmarks in India's culinary landscape.”

Sagar Daryani, President NRAI & CEO & Co-Founder, Wow! Momo Foods Pvt. Ltd. said, " Restaurants have always taken pride in their recipes, their stories, and their journeys. But in today’s world, excellence alone isn’t enough, discovery matters just as much. Coca-Cola Foodmarks addresses this opportunity by celebrating what makes each restaurant special and bringing it to the forefront. Given its global success, we believe India’s diversity of cuisines makes Foodmarks an even stronger fit, delivering authentic content and real visibility for the industry.”

With Foodmarks 2.0, Coca-Cola India and NRAI are ushering in a new chapter in India’s food culture. By uniting the country’s diverse flavors with an ice-cold Coca-Cola, the initiative is set to create lasting food landmarks that resonate with people. As the program expands, it will continue to strengthen the connection between people, food, and shared moments of Real Magic — one Foodmark at a time.

About Coca-Cola India

Coca-Cola in India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of high-quality and refreshing beverage options to consumers. The company, in line with its vision of ‘Beverages For Life’ offers a wide portfolio of products which includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice and dairy based products. In India its beverage range includes Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Charged by Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices and Honest Tea. The Company also offers hydration beverages including Limca GlucoCharge, Smartwater, Kinley, Dasani and Bonaqua packaged drinking water and Kinley Club Soda. Premium products constitute Schweppes and Smartwater. In addition, it offers a Costa Coffee range of tea and coffee. The Company is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in its drinks to bringing innovative new products to market.

The Company along with its owned bottling operations and franchise bottling partners has a strong network of close to 4 million retail outlets through which it refreshes millions of consumers across the country. It seeks to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable agriculture initiatives and carbon emission reductions across its value chain.

Globally together with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs more than 700,000 people, helping to bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.cocacolacompany.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Introduces Exclusive Edition Of Innova HyCross With Elegant Design And 19 Premium Features

The Exclusive Edition is designed with refreshed styling and dual tone accents to elevate vehicle’s dynamic presence

Feature-rich upgrades for enhanced functionality and comfort

Available in ZX(O) grade for a limited time, with dual tone in two colors - Super White and Pearl White

The Innova HyCross ZX(O) Exclusive Edition is priced Rs. 32,58,000/- ex-showroom (Price will be same across the country at ex-showroom level)

Staying true to its customer-first philosophy, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the launch of the Exclusive Edition of the Innova HyCross available in the ZX(O) grade. Building upon the remarkable success of the Innova HyCross, this new rendition offers distinguished styling and enhanced cabin experience with the below offerings:

Dual Tone Exterior

Black Elements 

Roof

Front Grill

Rear Garnish

Alloy Wheels

Hood Emblem

Front Under Run

Front Grill Garnish

Wheel Arc Moulding

Outside Rear View Mirror (OVRM) Garnish

Exclusive Badge

Rear Under Run

Rear Door Chrome Lid Garnish

Dual Tone Interior

Instrument Panel

Door Fabric

Seat Material

Center Console Lid

Air Purifier

Leg Room Lamp

Wireless Charger

Innova HyCross Exclusive Edition available in ZX (O) Grade

Trusted by over a lakh customers across the country, the Innova HyCross continues to impress with its exceptional spirit of glamor and efficiency. Crafted to make every journey as distinctive as the individual behind the wheel, the Innova HyCross Exclusive Edition of ZX(O) will be available from May 2025 through July 2025, in two colors—Super White and Pearl White, in limited quantity.

Speaking on the introduction, Mr. Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said “The Innova HyCross has consistently garnered strong customer appreciation for its proportions & poise of an SUV with the spaciousness of an MPV, and we are truly humbled for their continued trust placed in the brand. Today, we are delighted to launch the Innova HyCross Exclusive Edition in ZX(O), thoughtfully crafted to meet the evolving aspirations of our discerning customers. This special variant embodies Toyota’s commitment to exclusivity and elevated customer experience.

With this introduction, we aim to offer enhanced value and added convenience features, while continuing to build on the strengths of the versatile Innova HyCross – perfect for families wanting a car that can deliver a seamless, fatigue-free drive.”

Since its debut in November 2022, the Innova HyCross has emerged as a preferred choice among customers, epitomizing Toyota's renowned Quality, Durability, and Reliability (QDR). Powered by the 5th Generation Self-Charging Strong Hybrid Electric System, built on the advanced Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), the Innova HyCross is much celebrated for delivering outstanding performance, unmatched fuel efficiency, and superior driving dynamics. Equipped with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder gasoline engine and an e-drive sequential shift, it delivers an impressive power output of 137 kW (186 PS) while offering best-in-segment fuel efficiency. The hybrid electric system is capable of operating the vehicle upto 60% of the time in electric (EV) mode, providing a seamless combination of power, efficiency, and environmental consciousness, giving customers a wise choice for a greener tomorrow.

With its class-leading features such as Powered Ottoman Second Row Seats, Front Ventilated Seats, Dual Zone Air Conditioning, Panoramic Sunroof, Toyota Safety Sense™, and connected infotainment experience, the Innova HyCross has set new benchmarks in the premium MPV segment, delighting our customers across India.

Bookings are now open across all Toyota dealerships. Customers can also book online at https://www.toyotabharat.com/

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Sells 4,80,896 Units In April 2025

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India announced its sales numbers for the month of April 2025.

The company’s total sales for April’25 stood at 4,80,896 units. This includes domestic sales of 4,22,931 units and 57,965 units exports.

HMSI’s Key Highlights of April 2025:

Product: HMSI introduced the updated OBD2B compliant versions of the Dio 125 with advanced new features. Moreover, the company’s premium motorcycle portfolio has been further strengthened with the launch of the 2025 CB350, CB350 H’ness, and CB350RS, featuring vibrant new colours. Aligned with the global market action, HMSI also announced a voluntary recall for its CB300R motorcycle for certain units manufactured between 2018 to 2020.

Road Safety: Expanding road safety awareness in India, HMSI promoted campaigns in 12 locations across India –Navsari (Gujarat), Yol Cantt. (Himachal Pradesh), Rajapalayam (Tamil Nadu), Ranchi (Jharkhand), Bengdubi (West Bengal), Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh), Pune (Maharashtra), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Anantapur (Andhra Pradesh), Tiruvallur (Tamil Nadu), Jaipur (Rajasthan) and New Delhi.  Additionally, HMSI celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Traffic Training Park in Hyderabad, advancing its efforts towards responsible road habits.

CSR: Honda India Foundation (HIF) held the valedictory ceremony of Project Buniyaad in Shillong, Meghalaya to mark the successful culmination of the training programme in Shillong, with 30 beneficiaries receiving job letters, paving the way for meaningful employment opportunities.

Motorsports: The MotoGP was held at Qatar and Spain in the month of April 2025. Marini garnered more points in fierce Qatar GP. Already doubling his points from last year, Luca Marini put together an impressive Spanish Grand Prix to make it four straight top ten finishes. Joan Mir was able to again show his undeniable speed but fell prematurely.  

Samsung To Launch 2025 Line-Up Of Vision AI Television On May 7

Samsung, India's largest consumer electronics brand, will launch its 2025 range of premium televisions with Vision AI on May 7.

Samsung will showcase its top-of-the-line premium televisions, including the Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED 4K, OLED and QLED, the company said. Samsung is likely to launch more than 10 models of premium televisions across multiple sizes.

The new premium Samsung televisions will come with Vision AI, which will change the way consumers interact with televisions. By incorporating on-device AI capabilities, Vision AI enables televisions to become aware of their surroundings, adapt to user preferences, and act autonomously to enhance the viewing experience.

Samsung has been the global leader in the television market for 19 consecutive years, according to market research firm Omdia. This continued success is driven by the company’s commitment to premium and ultra-large screen innovation, as well as the introduction of cutting-edge, AI-powered TVs.

Gen Forum Ed Conclave 2025 Revolutionizes Education With Cyber Academe Initiative

The Gen Forum Ed Conclave 2025 marked a historic milestone in the field of education, with over 500 Project Carte Blanche schools participating in this landmark event held in Bengaluru, India. The conclave brought together educators, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss pivotal topics, including Hybrid Learning, Skill Development, and Preventive Health Management, igniting a transformation in the realm of education. 

A stellar lineup of speakers contributed immensely to the discussions across various sessions, including Jaya Mahadevan, Vishakha Arbat, Pallavi Lokesh Shetty, and Adarsh Thompson from Microsoft; Deepak K. from Rotary; Mohammed Nasiruddin from G7CR; Nitika S. from Noventiq India; Syed Sultan Ahmed from School Cinema; Mitesh Gandhi from Marconix Sales Solution Pvt. Ltd.; Balaji Venkataraman from Scholar Labs; Svetlana Rao and Alagaraja Ravindra Raja from Fischer Medical Ventures Ltd.; and Mr. Vincent KV, Ali Sait, Roshini Kumar, Prashant Jha, Shivangini Srivastava, and Shriya Srivastava from Tech Avant-Garde. 

The conclave's highlight was the announcement of a groundbreaking initiative: transforming traditional schools into Digital Schools, termed Cyber Academe, under the aegis of Project Carte Blanche. This transformation will encompass six key pillars of digital transformation in education, 21st-century learning design concepts, Gen Extra Muros digital learning pedagogy, integration of devices such as Passim, Protean, M365, and Lycée integrated with AI and Metaverses, and the formation of the Connected Learning Community. 

Ali Sait, CEO of Tech Avant-Garde, articulated the future of education, stating, "Cyber Academe is the Learning System for the New Millennium. Students, teachers, and parents must be trained for this new genre of learning. Only then can we nurture a workforce suited for the Knowledge Age." 

Eddna Samuel, Global Strategic Partner, Carte Blanche, said, "The future of education is digital, and Cyber Academe is leading the charge. By embracing this innovative approach, we can empower students to succeed in a rapidly evolving world." 

The overwhelming participation and collaborative energy displayed at the conclave underscore the commitment to redefine education in alignment with the needs of our rapidly evolving world. 

For more information, contact - +91 953512332

About Tech Avant-Garde:

Tech Avant-Garde (TAG) is India’s largest Solution Provider in the education segment, supporting all levels of institutes, ranging from K-12 schools to universities. TAG is a part of the Accelerator program of Microsoft and has been certified as a Global Trainer for Microsoft in Education. TAG won the award for the Best Worldwide Training Partner of Microsoft Asia region. TAG, as a co-sell partner and ISV of Microsoft, has implemented the Digital Transformation and Holistic Learning program to help educational institutions to navigate from physical classrooms to digital classrooms. Some of the products and solutions of Tech Avant-Garde include Lycée-Cyber Academe, an ERP Campus Management solution, Efeeonline, an Online Multimode Fee payment solution for educational institutions. TAG also works in the knowledge enhancement of educators through Knowledge L’avenir, the largest social learning platform for teachers and Knowledge Key Foundation, to bring state-of-the-art technology and tools to aid institutions and teachers to enhance their digital teaching and learning skills.

TAG has Partnership and MOUs with the following organizations:

NCERT, AICTE, CBSE, CISCE UNICEF, NIELIT, Microsoft, QCI – NABIT, NPCI to name a few.

Create In India Challenge: WinZO And IEIC Lay The Foundation For The Export Of Indian Gaming Intellectual Property

* The Bharat Tech Triumph program under Create in India Challenge of Waves anchored by WinZO & IEIC—announces 20 winners

* Unlocking India’s Creative Potential: From Local Innovation to IP export, the winners are creating export-ready products to cement India’s global leadership in the gaming Industry.

The brightest creative and tech visionaries have converged in Mumbai, India's creative heartbeat, for the landmark launch of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES). Marking a new chapter in India's global entertainment narrative, WinZO, India's leading interactive entertainment platform, alongside the Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council (IEIC), proudly revealed 20 groundbreaking winners of the Bharat Tech Triumph Program (BTTP)—the cornerstone of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s ambitious 'Create in India' initiative. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting launched 4 challenges under the ‘Create in India’ Gaming umbrella to showcase India’s potential to produce content for the world. Shining under this clarion call is the Bharat Tech Triumph Edition (BTTP) Edition 3, by Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council (IEIC). The 20 winners will be showcasing at Waves starting 1st May 2025.

The success of BTTP lies at the intersection of two powerful trends. Firstly, the global and Indian entertainment industries have decisively shifted towards gaming. The global gaming market, valued at USD 300 billion, already surpasses the combined movie and music industries, while India's USD 3.7 billion gaming sector has become the leading contributor to new-age media, overtaking sectors like movies, music, and cricket. Secondly, Indian gaming companies, exemplified by WinZO, have strategically pivoted from 2023 onwards towards creating and exporting Indian gaming intellectual property (IP) globally.

Chosen from over 2,000 entries, these winners have been guided and mentored by industry luminaries such as Dr. Mukesh Aghi, President - US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Prashant Prakash, Partner - Accel Partners, Archana Jahagirdar, Managing Partner -Rukam Capital, and Rajesh Raju, Managing Partner - Kalaari Capital. Their innovative creations have dazzled international audiences at elite platforms including Game Developer Conference (GDC) 2024, Gamescom LATAM, Gamescom Germany, and this year’s GDC in San Francisco. These visionary developers will also showcase their latest games at WAVES.

BTTP is looking to pick India’s best game developers, provide global exposure and mentoring from the industry, fundraising opportunities, networking among global peers, and fine-tune their products to make them globally consumable. These interventions are aimed at making Indian gaming IP export-ready. India stands uniquely positioned with both significant domestic demand and immense untapped export potential, an advantage illustrated by smaller countries like Finland, Turkey, Israel which, despite its small population, has emerged as a global gaming leader with 90% of export-driven revenue. Leveraging both its large domestic consumer base and rising international opportunities, India is primed for exponential growth in the global gaming landscape while generating high productivity employment, shaping India’s soft power projection, and embedding India deep into the global psyche.  

Among the 20 winners, highlighting India’s rich cultural heritage, Brahman Studios unveiled “AUM-The Game,” an immersive philosophical adventure and a unique Karma system. Hyderabad’s 5th Ocean Studios captivated audiences with "Ilavath: Battle Arenas," an innovative strategy game deeply rooted in the eternal war between Devas and Asuras. Speaking on the opportunity, Sowmitri Maluchuru from Brahman Studios stated, "Being selected for GDC, Startup Mahakumbh, and WAVES is a lifetime opportunity for an independent developer like me to share my story and vision on a global platform, connecting with audiences, investors, and mentors worldwide.”

To leverage gaming’s potential for social outcomes, WinZO also partnered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) for gamifying healthcare under the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge launched by the Ministry of Commerce. Xfinito Biodesigns won recognition for their innovative products MiMo (MindMotion) and ReLive. MiMo is a health-focused gaming console enhancing brain function and rehabilitation, while ReLive is an AI-powered program combining cognitive computing, gamified activities, and digital therapeutics. Shri Rohit Kumar Singh, Former Secretary to the Government of India and Honorary Mentor in the Challenge, remarked, "Effectively addressing modern healthcare challenges demands a multifaceted approach. Gaming, with its immersive content and wide appeal, empowers individuals to manage their health proactively. I'm particularly excited about leveraging gamification, AR, and VR in healthcare professional training and capacity building."

Shri Prashanth Prakash, an eminent venture capitalist and Jury Member of BTTP noted: “India’s startup ecosystem is growing at a galloping speed. Visionary and thoughtful initiatives like the BTTP lay the groundwork to bring the ecosystem together and forever change the direction and acceleration of growth of a sector. Gaming, in India and globally, is undergoing a massive shift, and if India plays its cards right, it has the potential to become a leading global gaming market with a market size of over 50-60 bn by 2034.  The Hon’ble PM urged the sector to export Made in India games and BTTP rose up to contribute to this vision. Now in its 3rd Edition, BTTP shows the untapped talent, remarkable interest in gaming, and the need for scalable programs in the gaming sector.”

Paavan Nanda, WinZO Co-founder, articulated the initiative’s profound mission: "Presenting India’s pioneering gaming talent at global forums like WAVES and GDC is a privilege. These creators symbolize India’s unlimited potential in exporting cutting-edge gaming technology, vibrant culture, and powerful IP worldwide."

‘Create in India’ is a noble and visionary pursuit by the Government of India. The success of such a goal will hinge on India’s ability to capture shifting sands of global consumption, like in gaming, and investing in India’s talent to enable them to make export-ready products. BTTP captures the essence of these two critical factors and will prove crucial in exporting Indian gaming IP.

Manipal Group Of Institutions Honor Visionary Founder Dr T.M.A Pai On 127th Birth Anniversary

Manipal Group of Institutions celebrated the 127th birth anniversary of its founder Dr TMA Pai in solemn and respectful ceremony held at Manipal on Wednesday, 30 April 2025.  Paying rich tributes to the remarkable legacy of Dr TMA Pai on the occasion as the Chief Guest, Hon'ble Justice Shri S Abdul Nazeer, His Excellency the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, described him as a ‘legendary visionary’ whose pioneering efforts in education and healthcare have transformed lives and continue to inspire generations.

He remembered Dr. Pai as a multi-faceted personality, an educationist, banker, philanthropist, and a true nation builder. “Dr. Pai believed that poverty could be eradicated by eliminating illiteracy and ill health. Dr. Pai is a true Karma Yogi. He viewed educated children not just as assets to their families, but as the pillars of a progressive nation,” he added.

On a heartfelt personal note, the Governor also shared his connection to Dr. Pai’s legacy. “I am a proud alumnus of Mahaveera College at Moodbidri, an institution founded by Dr. T.M.A. Pai.  His vision shaped my educational journey and career,” he said.

The celebration was also attended by dignitaries from the Manipal Group comprising of Mrs Vasanti R Pai, Trustee, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Trust, Dr Ranjan R Pai, President, MAHE Trust, Registrar, Academy of General Education & Chairman, Manipal Education and  Medical Group (MEMG), Bengaluru, Mr T Ashok Pai, President of Dr TMA Pai Foundation, Manipal, Mr T Satish U Pai, Executive Chairman, Manipal Media Network Ltd., & Vice President, AGE, Dr HS Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE & President, AGE, Manipal, Lt Gen (Dr) MD Venkatesh VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Manipal.  The event was also graced by several senior officials from the Manipal Group, making it a significant celebration of Dr TMA Pai's lasting legacy.

Each year Manipal Group of Institutions celebrates Founder's Day on April 30th on his birth anniversary to honor and remember the legacy of Dr TMA Pai, the visionary founder of the Manipal Group, who transformed the once barren hilltop of Manipal into a globally renowned educational hub. This year's celebration featured several programs, beginning with a heartfelt floral tribute to Dr TMA Pai by all the distinguished guests and dignitaries.

Welcoming the august gathering, Dr HS Ballal, President-AGE Manipal & Pro Chancellor-MAHE , said, "We are reminded of the extraordinary vision of our founder Dr TMA Pai that has shaped not just an institution, but an entire educational ecosystem.  Dr Pai's anticipation into establishing self-financing educational institutions in the 1950s was revolutionary for its time and continues to inspire our approach to education today.  Today, as we honor his memory, we entrust ourselves to his principles of accessible quality education, innovation, and service to society that have become the traditional hallmark of the Manipal experience."

Addressing the audience, Lt Gen (Dr) MD Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor of MAHE, said, "As we celebrate the 127th birth anniversary of our founder, Dr TMA Pai, we reflect on a legacy that continues to guide our institution's mission and vision.  Dr Pai's remarkable journey from establishing a single medical college to creating this comprehensive educational ecosystem exemplifies what visionary leadership can accomplish. His basic belief that education should be accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic differences, remains central to the base of our institution.  In the past year, we have further strengthened our commitment to this vision through expanded scholarship programs, research initiatives addressing societal challenges, and international collaborations that provide our students with global perspectives.”

The event featured several award presentations, including the "Kundapur Mohan and Latha Bhandarkars' Merit-cum-Means Scholarships," the "Smt. Sharada M Pai - Dr Padma Rao Memorial Award" for the Best Nursing and Anganwadi Service, the "Smt. Sharada M Pai - Dr Padma Rao A- MMS Diamond Jubilee Award" for the Best Female Warden/Caretaker (Non-Teaching Staff), and the "Smt. Geetha K Nayak Memorial Award" for the Senior Nurses of Kasturba Hospital. The event also honored rank holders from AGE Colleges, recipients of Kadambi Scholarships, and Manipal Scholars.

Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor – Technology & Science, MAHE, delivered a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all those who contributed to making the celebration a success.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bangalore, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable academic track record, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant research contributions, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life and for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.

Ajit Prabhu, CEO And Co-Founder Of Quest Global Announces $10M Gift To RPI To Tackle World’s Toughest Engineering Challenges

Quest Global is honored to announce a $10 million endowment to Rensselaer Polytechnical Institute (RPI), aimed at advancing engineering innovation and entrepreneurship. This gift establishes the Ajit Prabhu Catalyst Endowment and the Ajit Prabhu Catalyst Fund donated by the Prahbu family, supporting the Office of Strategic Alliances and Translation (OSAT) to equip RPI students and faculty to solve some of the hardest engineering problems for today and tomorrow.

The Catalyst Fund will support accelerating groundbreaking ideas into proof-of-concept prototypes or market-ready ventures. The Fund will help bridge the gap between lab research and real-world application, allowing RPI’s brightest minds to focus not only on solving today’s challenges but also on anticipating tomorrow's opportunities. This endowment will help translate research into application to benefit society.  

“Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and in particular my mentor Dr. John Brunski in the Biomedical Engineering department shaped my career and expanded my worldview, allowing me to dream of infinite possibilities,” said Ajit Prabhu, CEO & Co-founder, Quest Global. “This gift from our family reflects our commitment to empowering students and faculty to pursue ambitious ideas and develop innovative solutions.  My dream is that this gift will inspire students to tackle the toughest engineering problems and deliver unparalleled value to humanity.”

Dr. Jonathan Dordick, Vice President of OSAT, highlighted the significance of the contribution, “The Ajit Prabhu Catalyst Fund represents a powerful opportunity for RPI’s entrepreneurial community. This fund will enable students and faculty to innovate freely, knowing they have the resources to turn new discoveries into viable products and thriving businesses.”

Ajit Prabhu’s leadership at Quest Global, one of the world’s fastest-growing engineering services firms with over 21,000 engineers worldwide, underscores his dedication to solving the hardest engineering problems across industries including Aerospace, Energy, High Tech, and Automotive. His core belief—that culture and aspiration are as critical as strategy—aligns perfectly with RPI’s mission to inspire the next generation of forward-thinking problem-solvers.

About Quest Global:

At Quest Global, it's not just what we do but how and why we do it that makes us different. We are in the business of engineering, but what we are really creating is a brighter future. For over 25 years, we've been solving the world's most complex engineering problems. Operating in 18 countries, with over 84 global delivery centers, our 21,000+ curious minds embrace the power of doing things differently to make the impossible possible. Using a multi-dimensional approach, combining technology, industry expertise, and diverse talents, we tackle critical challenges faster and more effectively. And we do it across the Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Energy, Hi-Tech, MedTech & Healthcare, Rail and Semiconductor industries. For world-class end-to-end engineering solutions, we are your trusted partner. 

About Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Founded in 1824 for the application of science to the common purposes of life, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is the first technological research university in the United States. Today, it is recognized as a premier university, noted for its robust and holistic learning community that connects creativity with science and technology. RPI is dedicated to inventing for the future, from shaping the scientists, engineers, technologists, architects, and entrepreneurs who will define what’s next for humanity, to research that bridges disciplines to solve the world's toughest problems. Learn more at rpi.edu.  

Bengaluru-based CognitiveLab Wins 2024 Meta Llama Impact Grant For Its Nayana Project Advancing Multilingual AI

Meta has announced the recipients of the 2024 Llama Impact Grants, recognizing innovators using open-source large language models to tackle critical social challenges. Among this year’s global winners is CognitiveLab, an India-based research lab whose project Nayana is revolutionizing AI accessibility for linguistically diverse communities. The Llama Impact Grant will help scale Nayana’s multilingual, multimodal capabilities, expanding access to AI across more than 22 languages and reaching over three billion people worldwide.

Launched in 2023, the Llama Impact Grants support transformative uses of Meta’s open-source models: Llama 2, Llama 3, and now Llama 4, that demonstrate measurable social impact.

Headquartered in Bangalore, CognitiveLab is a mission-driven, open-source-first AI research lab focused on developing state-of-the-art technologies that are accessible, transparent, and community-powered. The lab has pioneered open infrastructure projects such as the Indic LLM Leaderboard and released benchmark datasets widely adopted by global researchers.

Nayana, developed by CognitiveLab, is a multilingual, multimodal, multitask language model that integrates advanced Llama technology to automate document and image processing across diverse languages, including several low-resource Indic languages. The model includes robust text, vision, and speech capabilities and has already outperformed industry standards in OCR for 10 Indian languages.

Speaking on the announcement, Shivnath Thukral, Vice President and Head of Public Policy, Meta India, said, “Open-source AI is a powerful tool to bridge digital divides, especially in a diverse country like India. With the 2024 Llama Impact Grant, we’re proud to support the Nayana project. Its work embodies the spirit of open innovation—making advanced AI usable for billions of people. Llama 4 was designed with accessibility, flexibility, and scalability at its core—and we’re excited to see how CognitiveLab will leverage this foundation to drive real-world impact.”

Shashi Kumar, Founder, CognitiveLab, added, “Our vision is to democratize AI in a way that’s inclusive and equitable. The Llama Impact Grant enables us to supercharge our efforts with Nayana - expanding language coverage, enhancing multimodal capabilities, and building high-quality training datasets for low-resource language communities. Open-source and Llama have empowered us to build world-class systems like Ambari and Nayana with minimal resources. This grant is a milestone in our journey to build impactful, indigenous AI solutions for the global south.”

CognitiveLab plans to use the grant to expand Nayana’s language support, increase the model’s multimodal integration, and develop optimized deployment tools for low-resource settings. The lab will also release new speech-text-image datasets, improve its Indic tokenizer, and set new benchmarks for multilingual AI systems through community collaboration.

With over 1 billion global downloads and more than 85,000 derivative models, the Llama family of open-source AI models, now in its fourth generation, has become the foundation for a growing ecosystem of socially impactful solutions. India remains one of the top markets for Llama adoption, where innovators like CognitiveLab are leveraging these tools to solve complex local challenges and foster inclusive digital growth.

IGI School Of Gemology Introduces Comprehensive "Diploma In Pearls" Program

* Empowering Professionals with Expertise in Pearl Identification, Grading, and Market Insights Through a Hands-On, Industry-Focused Program

The International Gemological Institute (IGI) School of Gemology announces the launch of its exclusive "Diploma in Pearls" program. This intensive 5-day course offers a comprehensive exploration of pearls, combining in-depth theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical training. The Diploma will provide ongoing opportunities for aspiring gemologists and jewelry professionals, enhancing their expertise and career prospects. Enrollment for the inaugural batch is now open. This course will be held at IGI’s Mumbai campus.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Tehmasp Printer, Managing Director and CEO of IGI, said, "The IGI School of Gemology is committed to providing world-class education in gemology. Our 'Diploma in Pearls' program offers enthusiasts and professionals alike a unique opportunity to master pearl identification and grading, gain hands-on practical training, and learn from expert faculty. With pearls playing a growing role in the global jewelry market, this diploma is the perfect stepping stone for those looking to enhance their expertise in the field. Understanding the intricacies of pearl certification is crucial for maintaining transparency and trust in the marketplace."

* The curriculum covers a comprehensive range of topics, including the following:

Pearl Origins and History – Explore the cultural and historical significance of pearls and learn about the anatomy of pearl-producing oysters and mussels.

Types and Imitations – Identify different pearl varieties and how to distinguish them from  simulants and examine common pearl treatments and their effects.

Grading Criteria – Understand the key factors used to evaluate pearl quality and value.

Hands-On Analysis – Develop analytical skills through basic and advanced pearl assessments and benefit from guided practical sessions led by industry professionals.

Market Readiness – Gain insights into practical applications and market trends.

"Diploma in Pearls" program is ideal for a diverse range of professionals, including sales associates, managers, business owners, buyers, manufacturer's sales representatives, brokers, appraisers, wholesalers, diamond and jewelry designers, gem lab personnel, and anyone keen on becoming a gem expert.

For more information about future batches and enrolment details, visit IGI's School of Gemology website.

Greenlam Industries Launches Its First Exclusive Dealer Display Showroom In Karnataka At Sapthagiri Panel Products Ltd., Bengaluru

Greenlam Industries, a leading provider of integrated substrate and surface solutions, across more than 120 countries, proudly announces the launch of its first exclusive dealer display showroom in Karnataka. Strategically located at NO. 275/8, New Timber Yard Layout, Mysore Road, next to N.A.K. Kalyana Mantappa, Bengaluru – 560026, the 2,400 sq. ft. showroom reflects over a decade of trusted presence in the interior solutions industry.

The newly launched showroom houses a complete portfolio of Greenlam’s premium offerings including Greenlam Laminates, Decowood Veneers, Mikasa Flooring, Mikasa Staircase Solutions, Mikasa Doors & Frames, and Mikasa Plywood. Designed as a one-stop solution for interior needs, the showroom brings together a rich tapestry of colours, textures, and finishes, curated to inspire homeowners, architects, designers, and contractors alike.

Sapthagiri Panel Products Pvt. Ltd. is celebrated in the industry for its unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Now, with this strategic collaboration, Greenlam and Sapthagiri aim to elevate the customer experience in Karnataka by offering a premium and immersive space where the interior fraternity can engage with innovative, design-forward products.

The showroom features Greenlam’s wide range of premium laminates in diverse finishes, designs, and colors—offering stylish, durable surfacing solutions. It also showcases Decowood Veneers, crafted from over 200 exotic wood species like oak, walnut, and mahogany, enhanced with TD technology to highlight natural grain patterns.

Complementing this, Mikasa Floors present a robust three-layer construction made from real hard wood, a stabilizing core, and a balancing layer. These floors are equipped with the innovative PlankLoc™ glue-free locking system, ensuring durability and ease of installation—ideal for modern, high-traffic spaces. Mikasa Staircase Solutions include pre-finished treads, risers, and nosing for easy installation, while Mikasa Doors & Frames provide sleek, factory-finished units. The range is completed with versatile Mikasa Plywood, making the showroom a one-stop destination for premium interiors.

The showroom was inaugurated by Mr. Saurabh Mittal, Managing Director & CEO of Greenlam Industries Limited, alongside Mr. Anil TN, Partner at Sapthagiri Panel Products Pvt. Ltd. The grand launch event was attended by over 120 industry professionals, including architects, OEMs, contractors, and clients, marking a significant moment in Greenlam’s expansion in South India.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Saurabh Mittal, Managing Director and CEO of Greenlam Industries Ltd., said,

“The opening of this new showroom in Bengaluru marks a strategic milestone in Greenlam’s journey to bring world-class surfacing solutions closer to the design and architecture community in Karnataka. This space is not just a showcase of our expansive product range, it is a hub for inspiration, innovation, and collaboration. From premium laminates and decorative veneers to engineered wood floors, doors, and plywood, we aim to provide designers, architects, and homeowners with comprehensive, hands-on experience of our offerings.

We are equally excited to collaborate with Sapthagiri Panel Products Pvt. Ltd., a partner whose commitment to excellence and customer service reflects our own. Together, we look forward to setting new benchmarks in quality, service, and design in this dynamic market.”

As Karnataka’s first exclusive Greenlam Laminates and Wood & Allied Products dealer display showroom, this new centre stands as a testament to Greenlam’s commitment to design excellence, performance, and sustainability.

About Greenlam Industries

Greenlam Industries Limited ranks among the top three laminate manufacturers globally and is a leading integrated substrate and surface solutions provider. The company offers a wide range of products to customers in over 120 countries, consistently delivering innovation and quality. Its diverse product portfolio includes decorative laminates and compacts, interior and exterior cladding, restroom cubicles and locker solutions, decorative veneers, engineered wood flooring, doors, plywood and pre-laminated chipboards. 

With five state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities located across India—in Behror (Rajasthan), Nalagarh (Himachal Pradesh), Prantij (Gujarat), Tindivanam (Tamil Nadu), and Naidupeta (Andhra Pradesh)—Greenlam is committed to both quality and environmental responsibility. The company ethically sources its raw materials and holds numerous sustainability certifications, including FSC®, PEFC™, ISO 14001, GRIHA, GREENPRO, REACH, ISO 45001, and ISO 50001. Its products are globally certified with CE, UL, NSF, SEFA, Green Label, Greenguard, NEMA (for the US and North America), and BS EN standards. Greenlam is also ISO 9001 certified for Quality Management Systems and holds SEDEX certification for Ethical Trade Initiatives, ensuring its products are both safe and eco-friendly. 

Supported by an expansive global sales and distribution network, Greenlam is always prepared to assist in transforming your spaces with seamless expertise. 

For more information, visit: https://www.greenlamindustries.com/ 

NUVOCO Vistas Announces Its Financial Results For Q4 And FY25

* Achieved historical quarterly highest consolidated EBITDA of Rs. 556 Cr. in Q4 FY25

* Deleveraging initiative continued with Net debt reduction of Rs. 390 Cr. YoY to Rs. 3640 Cr.

* Received NCLT nod for Vadraj Cement acquisition, enhancing cement capacity to 31 MMT by FY27

* Cement volume for FY25 closed at 19.4 MMT

Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd., a leading building materials Company in India, announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. With 25 MMTPA of combined installed capacity, Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd. is the 5th largest cement group in India and amongst the leading cement players in East India. The Company is on track to achieve 31 MMTPA cement capacity by Q3 FY27 post NCLT approving the Resolution Plan for acquisition of Vadraj Cement Limited (VCL).

The Company achieved a consolidated cement sales volume of 5.7 MMT in Q4 FY25, with full-year volume reaching 19.4 MMT. Consolidated revenue from operations grew 4% YoY to Rs. 3,042 Cr. in Q4, bringing FY25 revenue to Rs. 10,357 Cr. The Company also reported its highest-ever quarterly consolidated EBITDA of Rs. 556 Cr. in Q4 FY25, with full-year EBITDA at Rs. 1,391 Cr. Furthermore, the Company stayed committed to its deleveraging agenda reducing its net debt by Rs. 390 Cr. YoY to Rs. 3,640 Cr.

FY25 marked a year of resilience and recovery for the cement industry, with demand picking up steadily after a muted first half. Nuvoco capitalized on this rebound with targeted initiatives that delivered volume growth, especially in the second half. Cement demand remained robust across two consecutive quarters, supported by increased Central and State Government Capex in infrastructure and housing. Throughout the year, the Company maintained a sharp focus on operational excellence. This is reflected in achieving the lowest blended fuel cost in the last 14 quarters at Rs. 1.43 per Mcal, reinforcing Nuvoco’s position amongst the industry's lowest in power and fuel costs.

The Company undertook key marketing initiatives to enhance its brand presence. These included the ‘Sarthi Programme at Maha Kumbh 2025’, which provided an immersive experience to over 25,000 visitors, reinforcing the company’s commitment to its channel partners and influencers. Additionally, the launch of ‘Sabse Khaas Pehelwaan’, Haryana’s premier wrestling championship, helped strengthen Duraguard Cement’s brand by aligning it with the strength and resilience of wrestling champions. Furthermore, the Company also commenced production of Duraguard Microfiber Cement at Haryana Cement Plant to cater to Northern market.

The RMX business, with 58 operational plants, is gaining healthy momentum, contributing to overall growth. In the MBM business, products such as tile adhesive, construction chemicals, cover blocks, and block jointing mortar are experiencing strong sales momentum, further accelerating performance.

The Company continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability with lowest carbon emissions in the industry, with 457 kg CO2 per ton1 of cementitious materials.

Commenting on the performance of the Company, Mr. Jayakumar Krishnaswamy, Managing Director, Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd., stated, “Despite a subdued demand environment in the first half of FY25, the Company witnessed a strong rebound in the second half. The Company responded swiftly by capitalising on emerging opportunities to strengthen its market presence. Back-to-back quarters of improved demand, coupled with our sharp focus on premiumisation, contributed to enhanced realisations leading to the Company achieving historical quarterly highest consolidated EBITDA.”

He further remarked, “We remain optimistic about the cement demand in near to medium term. As we look ahead, our focus will be on scaling growth and expanding our market footprint. Moving ahead, the Company will focus on growth and expanding market footprint with Vadraj Cement acquisition elevating capacity to 31 MMTPA by Q3 FY27. The Company will continue to drive key initiatives pertaining to premiumisation, geo-optimisation and cost optimisation. This aligns with our renewed mission of being a Trusted Building Materials Company Creating Value for Our Stakeholders.”

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Sells 27,324 Units In The Month Of April 2025

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) recorded a growth of 33% in April 2025 over the same period last year, selling 27,324 units. In April 2025, domestic sales stood at 24,833 units, while exports contributed 2,491 units. In April 2024, TKM had sold 20,494 units.

The growth momentum was sustained despite a maintenance shutdown from April 21-25, 2025, undertaken for the upkeep of machinery and equipment to maintain operational efficiency, productivity, and safety.

The company closed the last fiscal year with its highest-ever sales in India, reaffirming growing customer trust and the market’s preference for quality, reliability, and robust after-sales support.

Speaking on the sales momentum, Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, said, “The sustained growth is a testament to our unwavering commitment to offering the Indian market the right products and technologies at the right time. Our multi-pathway approach, which provides diverse technology options, has enabled us to respond positively to shifting customer needs and has ensured strong demand across our line-up. We are also encouraged by the positive response to the recently introduced Urban Cruiser Hyryder, now equipped with enhanced safety, comfort, and convenience features — further strengthening its appeal among customers.

Looking ahead, we will continue to be guided by customer voices, responding with agility and precision in introducing products and value-added services that align with rising expectations.”

Samsung's Premium AI-Integrated QLED TV Series And Crystal Clear 4K UHD TV Now Live On Amazon And Flipkart

* The QLED Series features advanced AI technology that intelligently optimizes picture and sound based on user preferences and viewing conditions

* Consumers can enjoy access to a wide range of free channels, offering diverse entertainment options at no additional cost

* The new lineup will be available for purchase starting May 1, 2025, on Amazon, Flipkart, and Samsung.com

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, announced the launch of its new range of AI-powered QLED TV and Crystal Clear 4K UHD TV, available on Amazon, Flipkart, and Samsung.com starting May 1, 2025.  Designed to deliver the ultimate home entertainment experience, the new lineup includes the QLED series - QEF1, equipped with cutting-edge AI technology, and the Clear 4K UHD series – UE81, UE84, UE86, engineered to provide exceptional clarity, color, and detail for an immersive viewing experience.

At the center of the launch is the QLED TV, featuring Real and Safe Quantum Dot Technology to deliver stunning color accuracy and durability. Featuring True Quantum Dots for unparalleled color precision, these TVs are also free from Cadmium, a harmful substance known to be a cancer-causing agent, ensuring both safety and superior performance.

Powered by Samsung’s latest Q4 AI Processor, the TV analyzes and optimizes content in real-time with sharper visuals, clearer sound, and a more personalized viewing experience. Leveraging Samsung Vision AI, it intelligently enhances picture quality by recognizing scenes, objects, and faces for lifelike details, while also ensuring precise color volume with Pantone Validated Colors for true-to-life hues. To ensure peace of mind, the TV is secured with Samsung Knox Security, protecting users’ data and connected devices. Additionally, the new lineup offers access to Endless Free Content, delivering a world of entertainment with no additional Cost.

Samsung’s new UHD models deliver crystal-clear 4K resolution, powered by the advanced Crystal 4K Processor, ensuring sharp and vibrant visuals. With 4K Upscaling, the models also enhance lower-resolution content to near 4K quality. Featuring PurColour, they offer lifelike colors for a truly immersive viewing experience. The integrated OTS Lite technology delivers dynamic sound with virtual top channel audio, creating an enriched audio experience. With access to endless free content, these models make premium entertainment accessible to a broader audience.

Viplesh Dang, Senior Director, Visual Display Business, Samsung India, said, “At Samsung, we continuously push the boundaries of innovation to deliver products that redefine home entertainment. With launch of our AI-enhanced QLED and Crystal Clear 4K UHD TVs, we are elevating the viewing experience for consumers, offering advanced entertainment. These models, powered by Samsung Vision AI, deliver intelligent scene recognition for enhanced picture quality, making every frame more immersive. This launch reflects our dedication to delivering intelligent viewing experiences to more homes, meeting the evolving needs of our consumers with innovation, convenience, and reliability”

Customers can look forward to benefits like discounts of up to 35%. The new Samsung Online TV lineup is available with 12 month No Cost EMI starting at just INR 3,333/month for QLED models and INR 2,500/month for UHD models. Customers can also avail an instant bank cashback of up to INR 3,000.  With innovative features and exclusive launch offers, this new range is set to transform living spaces into cinematic hubs.

Key Features of QLED TV

Real and Safe QLED

Samsung’s Real and Safe QLED TVs are built with 100% Color Volume-certified Quantum Dot technology, delivering vibrant, lifelike visuals. Certified for safety by trusted global institutions, these TVs are also free from Cadmium, a harmful substance known to be a cancer-causing agent, ensuring a healthier and worry-free viewing experience for all.

Q4 AI Processor

The Samsung Q4 AI Processor enhances the TV viewing experience by intelligently optimizing both visuals and sound in real time. It upscales content to detailed 4K resolution, ensuring an immersive experience tailored to the surroundings and the content being viewed.

Pantone Validation

Pantone Validation guarantees superior color accuracy by meeting Pantone’s stringent testing standards. This validation ensures the authentic reproduction of Pantone colors and skin tones, providing an immersive viewing experience that mirrors the creator’s original vision.

Samsung Vision AI

Samsung Vision AI brings intelligent enhancements to TVs with real-time AI upscaling, smart features like Generative Wallpaper, and SmartThings. It adapts visuals, sound, and interactions based on the environment and user needs. Advanced AI capabilities offer a truly personalized and immersive viewing experience.

Samsung Knox Security

Samsung Knox is Samsung’s commitment to security, providing defense-grade protection across devices. It offers a comprehensive suite of security features, customizable to meet diverse business needs. With Knox, businesses can confidently safeguard their data and operations.

SmartThings

The SmartThings app on Samsung TVs allows you to control and automate your TV and other smart devices, enhancing your home experience. By using SmartThings, you can control appliances, lights, and security cameras directly from the TV. To set it up, simply navigate to the SmartThings option in the TV's menu and follow the prompts to connect your devices.

Key Features of Crystal Clear 4K UHD TVs

Crystal Processor 4K

The Crystal Processor 4K provides enhanced picture quality with precise colour mapping. This powerful processor ensures that every shade of colour is displayed as intended, offering a lifelike 4K resolution for all content.

PurColor

With PurColor, consumers can enjoy an above and beyond experience while watching their favorite content by enjoying real life color expression on the screen. It enables the TV to express a vast range of colors for optimal picture performance and an immersive viewing experience. With One Billion True Colors, this distinctive technology brings reality to the TV screen, with existing colors being showcased in their original state.

Multi Voice Assistant

Consumers can pick their favorite voice assistant that is built-in into the new Crystal Vision 4K UHD TV for an advanced control in their connected home. They can choose between Bixby or Amazon Alexa and cherish an optimal home entertainment experience from the coziness and comfort of their living couch.

OTS Lite

OTS Lite (Object Tracking Sound Lite) uses Samsung’s AI algorithms to track on-screen movements and precisely match sound locations using multi-channel speakers. 3D surround sound with our virtual top channel audio allows you to be immersed in the audio experience.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.  

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the world of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For latest news on Samsung India, please visit Samsung India Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com/in. For Hindi, log on to Samsung Newsroom Bharat at https://news.samsung.com/bharat. You can also follow us on Twitter @SamsungNewsIN. 

UP42 And Maxar Partner To Broaden Global Access To The Most Advanced Commercial Geospatial Intelligence

UP42 customers are now able to task Maxar’s industry-leading constellation and access very high-resolution imagery to deliver mission-critical insights in near real-time

UP42 has partnered with Maxar, the leading provider of secure, precise geospatial insights, to make Maxar’s very high-resolution satellite imagery and tasking products available in the UP42 platform, broadening global access to the most advanced commercial geospatial intelligence.

UP42 customers can now directly task Maxar’s very high-resolution constellation, including its WorldView Legion satellites. With Maxar’s constellation able to revisit some Earth locations up to 15 times per day, UP42 customers will be able to access this advanced geospatial intelligence in near real-time. Soon, customers will also be able to order 30 cm-class and 50 cm-class imagery from Maxar’s archive, which can be combined with advanced AI and machine learning technologies to analyze patterns of life.

"Maxar’s integration marks a major milestone for UP42, providing our customers with greater flexibility, scale, and precision," said Jussi Koski, CPO at UP42. "The ability to directly task Maxar satellites, along with upcoming archive access, makes UP42 a comprehensive source for leading geospatial data."

UP42’s streamlined satellite tasking interface unlocks multi-AOI uploads, instant price estimates, and order tracking. This enables customers across civil government and a wide range of commercial industries—including oil, gas, mining and energy—to tackle some of their biggest real-world challenges, from infrastructure monitoring to environmental compliance.

“UP42 is a mission-critical partner for civil and commercial customers around the world, and by joining Maxar’s Partner Ecosystem, UP42 can give those customers access to more advanced geospatial intelligence that helps them act and decide with more confidence,” said Anders Linder, SVP and General Manager of Maxar Intelligence’s International Government business.

Customers can now task Maxar’s very high-resolution multispectral and panchromatic imagery on the UP42 platform in both mono and stereo formats.

To learn more, visit https://up42.com/marketplace/data/tasking/maxar-tasking.

About UP42

UP42 was founded in 2019 with a clear purpose: to transform how organizations order, access, and analyze Earth observation data. Our platform brings together the world’s leading geospatial providers, and offers a single touchpoint to access, manage, and process data at scale. From vegetation management and infrastructure monitoring to disaster response, UP42 helps organizations across industries find solutions to complex problems through Earth observation. Our expert support team and detailed documentation guide our users through every step. Visit us at up42.com.

About Maxar Intelligence 

Maxar Intelligence is a leading provider of secure, precise geospatial insights. Operating the most advanced commercial Earth observation constellation on orbit, we use the power of very high-resolution satellite imagery and software technology to deliver mission success on Earth and in space. Our secure, AI-powered products and services deliver ground truth in near real-time to keep nations safe, improve navigation, protect our planet, speed up disaster response and more. For more information, visit www.maxar.com.

Cultural Curiosity Is The New Cool - Abu Dhabi Plays Host To Indian Kids With A Range Of Historical Gems For Them To Discover

* 93% of Indian kids want activities that help make new friends on holiday

* They also want museums, community experiences and food markets

A recent global study, commissioned by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), surveyed kids aged between 5–12 , revealing that 93% of Indian children want to participate in activities that help them make new friends. Among the top highlights of the research, was the insight that Indian kids are looking to explore different cultures beyond their own borders, making cultural curiosity the new thing among the younger generation.

According to the study, an astounding figure of more than three in four Indian kids want to visit a museum on holiday. Today’s generation of Indian children are also more inclined towards visiting food markets, exploring diverse cultures, and other similar factors. The results reveal:

Food plays a significant role in driving young Indian travellers with over 90% of kids wanting to visit food markets, an opportunity to learn more about different cultures.

As many as 96% want to visit water parks and play water sports, with these activities making holidays more adventurous and amusing.

The trend continues with as many as 80% keen to visit grand places and 80% having interest in seeing how people live, as well as things to do like experiencing climbing lessons (79%) on holidays.

H.E. Nouf Mohamed Al-Bushlaibi, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing & Communications at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: "As both a parent and a marketer, I know firsthand how important it is to really listen to kids, to understand what lights them up, what sparks their imagination, and what makes a holiday unforgettable. We commissioned this research to hear what truly matters to children when they look at holidays, and what they told us was inspiring: they want connection, adventure, and the freedom to play out the stories they love. Abu Dhabi brings all of that to life as a place where kids can dream big, try new things, and feel right at home doing it with their loved ones."

With the data revealing interesting insights on young Indian travellers, DCT Abu Dhabi has collaborated with kids to co-create an exciting seven-day itinerary – by, kids for kids. The Kid-Recommended itinerary will comprise theme parks, museums, zoo visits, beach days, and plenty of other amazing locations in Abu Dhabi.

Visit here to watch our experiential film and attached in the mail is our first-ever Kid-Recommended itinerary.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi: 

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi's culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi's wider global ambitions. 

By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate's position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate's potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries. 

DCT Abu Dhabi's vision is defined by the emirate's people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi's status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought. 

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae 

MAHE Inaugurates Manipal Hospice And Respite Centre, Revolutionizing Healthcare With Compassion

One-of-its-kind centre tied-up with university teaching hospital

Largest in Karnataka and second largest Hospice and Respite Centre in India

100% philanthropic and free of cost for all age groups

It will offer two core services: Hospice and Respite Care

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) marked a significant milestone in Indian healthcare industry with the successful inauguration of Manipal Hospice and Respite Centre (MHRC) at Havanje near Udupi on April 30, 2025.   Hon’ble Justice Shri Syed Abdul Nazeer, His Excellency, the Governor of Andhra Pradesh inaugurated nation’s one of its kind free of cost palliative care facility.

Dedicating the high impact social initiative of MAHE, hon’ble Governor Justice Shri Syed Abdul Nazeer said, “MAHE’s initiative to establish MHRC reflects a noble commitment to alleviate the suffering of those with advanced and terminal illnesses—treating compassionate care as a fundamental human right.”

Expressing deep concern over the alarming rise in cancer cases, the Governor highlighted the healthcare system’s gaps.  “India reported 1.4 million new cancer cases in 2022, and yet less than 10% of patients in need receive palliative care.  MHRC is a path-breaking step that shifts away from hospital-centric models and instead provides affordable, humane care—greatly reducing emotional and financial distress on families,” hon’ble Governor noted.

Applauding MHRC’s values, the Governor added, “This centre upholds the spirit of ‘Manava Seve Madhava Seve’—service to mankind is service to God.  By offering free, personalized, and dignified end-of-life care through philanthropic support, MHRC sets a benchmark in healthcare delivery. It is a visionary model that deserves to be replicated nationwide.”

Mrs. Vasanti R Pai, Trustee, MAHE Trust, Dr Ranjan Pai, President MAHE Trust, Registrar of Academy of General Education (AGE), and Chairman of Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), Ashoka Pai, President of Dr TMA Pai Foundation, Dr HS Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of MAHE, Lt Gen (Dr) MD Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Shri Kota Srinivas Poojary, Member of Parliament, Shri Yashpal Anand Suvarna, Member of Legislative Assembly, and Abhaya Chandra Jain, former Member of Legislative Assembly participated in this high profile event.

Senior officials of MAHE, Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor (Technology & Science), Dr Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor (Management, Law, Humanities, and Social Sciences), Dr Dilip G Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor-Mangalore, Dr Raviraja NS, Chief Operating Officer - Operations, Dr P Giridhar Kini, Registrar and Dr. Vinod V. Thomas, Registrar (Evaluation),Dr Anand Venugopal, Chief Operating Officer-Teaching Hospitals, MAHE, Manipal, Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent, Kasturba Hospital Manipal (KMC Manipal), Dr Padmaraj Hegde, Dean, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Dr Naveen Salins, Associate Dean and Professor & Head of the Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care at KMC Manipal  and Dr Seema Rao, Director, MHRC were present on the occasion.

A First in India: Free Palliative Care on a Lush Green Campus

The MHRC, located just outside Manipal on a lush 12-acre campus by the Swarna River, with 78% green zone prioritizing calm, and open environment that promotes well-being, is designed to offer compassionate care for patients facing serious and life-limiting illnesses.  The facility will begin operations in June 2025 and will provide a full range of palliative and respite care services, completely free of charge.   This 100-beded facility is the only hospice in India attached to both a medical college and tertiary care hospital, that caters to both cancer and non-cancer conditions.  MHRC will provide innovative care models while training the next generation of palliative care specialists. The patient-centered approach will be further enhanced through innovative telehealth programs, ensuring accessible care for all who need it regardless of location.

MHRC combines both hospice (end-of-life) and respite (short-term relief) services under one roof, offering comprehensive pain and symptom management, wound and stoma care, nursing and rehabilitation services. A multidisciplinary team including doctors, nurses, counsellors, psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, and volunteers will provide holistic care that addresses physical, emotional, spiritual, and social needs. MHRC emphasizes dignity therapy, legacy work, rehabilitation, and family empowerment, along with medical care.  It also integrates education and bereavement support, ensuring patients and their families are prepared and supported through every stage of serious illness and loss.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life, as well as for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.

Motorola Launches "Motorola edge 60 pro” In India With True Flagship Grade AI Experience

This model segment’s only 50MP + 50MP+ 50X AI camera system, world’s most immersive 1.5K True Colour Quad-Curved display, 6000mAh battery with world’s highest battery rating on DXOMARK

The motorola edge 60 pro lets users effortlessly shoot like a pro with the segment’s only 50MP + 50MP+ 50X most advanced AI camera.

The motorola edge 60 Pro takes the AI in smartphones to next level with dedicated AI key and offering on-device motoAI with flagship level features which can predict your next move and offer contextual suggestions basis what is on the screen.

It flaunts the world’s most immersive 1.5K true colour Quad Curved display, which is also the brightest, most vibrant display on a Motorola phone till date.

The motorola edge 60 pro comes with Premier–grade, AI-enhanced performance with MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Extreme chipset with ultra-efficient 4nm technology.

Packing a powerful 6000mAh battery with the world’s highest battery rating after receiving DXOMARK’s Gold Label certification, the motorola edge 60 pro delivers all-day power with ease. When it’s time to recharge, the 90W TurboPower™ charger included in the box gives users approximately 45 hours of power in just a few minutes.

It is engineered to give users peace of mind with an IP68/IP69 rating, offering superior protection against dust, dirt, sand, and high-pressure water. Plus, it’s designed to withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. The motorola edge 60 pro also meets military standards (MIL-810H) for durability, all while maintaining a sophisticated, elegant look-and-feel.

The motorola edge 60 pro will go on sale at an effective starting price of just 29,999on Flipkart, Motorola.in and leading retail stores across India, Pre- Order starts today, 30th Apr’25, 12PM onwards.

Motorola, a global leader in mobile technology and innovation and India’s leading~ AI smartphone brand added yet another disruptive smartphone to their edge 60 lineup with the launch of the “motorola edge 60 pro”. The device comes with the segment’s only 50MP + 50MP+ 50X (Telephoto) advanced AI camera, the segment’s most personalized and contextual on-device AI experience with dedicated AI key and the world’s most immersive 1.5K True Colour Quad- Curved display. Additionally, the motorola edge 60 pro also features world’s highest battery rating after receiving DXOMARK’s Gold Label certification - boasting a 6000mAh battery, with 90W TurboPower Charging and 15W wireless charging. Further the device is powered by the incredibly powerful and AI enabled Mediatek Dimensity 8350 Extreme Processor.

AI Overview:

Introducing the segment’s most personalised and contextual AI, the motorola edge 60 pro is powered by moto AI. It works its magic behind the scenes to deliver a smarter, more intuitive way to interact and engage for the users with:

Next move, which recognizes what’s on a user’s screen, such as a recipe or group chat, and offers helpful next steps in real time. Next move is ideal for those who are new to AI experiences and want to explore. The same goes for:

* Playlist Studio, which curates the perfect playlist based on one’s screen, so the right vibe is always achieved.

* Image Studio, which uses generative AI creation and editing capabilities to turn ideas into images, avatars, stickers and wallpapers.

Smart Connect with AI, which was announced earlier in the year, transforms a simple voice or text command like, “show me this on my TV,” into streaming an app to a larger display, mirroring the phone to a PC or tablet, or activating a hub view for multitasking

Designed to enhance everyday tasks, moto ai makes everything from capturing the perfect photo to organizing notifications smarter and more personal. Under three core pillars—Create, Capture, and Assist—moto ai empowers users in meaningful ways. In Create, features like AI Image Studio and AI Playlist Studio unlock a new level of creativity and personal expression. Capture brings powerful AI to the camera system for intelligent image enhancements. Assist features such as Pay Attention- which listens, transcribes, and summarizes audio in the background—Remember This, Recall, and Journal help users remember, organize, and revisit important information and with Catch Me Up, they get a concise summary of missed updates.

With the launch of the motorola edge 60 pro, Motorola redefines the smartphone experience by integrating powerful AI, both through moto ai and collaborations with Perplexity, Microsoft, and Google. Users can choose their preferred AI assistant for smarter, more flexible support. Motorola also becomes the first to bring Perplexity AI to smartphones, offering three months of Perplexity Pro for free. Microsoft Copilot is now embedded via moto ai for real-time assistance, while Google Gemini adds smart trip planning, live conversations, and three months of Gemini Advanced with 2TB cloud storage. Powered by Hybrid AI architecture, the Edge 60 Pro uses Meta’s Llama and Google’s Imagen 3 and Gemini 2 models to deliver faster, safer, and more personalized experiences—both on-device and on the cloud

Camera Overview:

The motorola edge 60 pro takes smartphone photography to the next level with powerful AI features. From Signature Style that automatically fine-tunes every shot, to Action Shot that captures fast-moving moments with clarity, and AI-driven image and video stabilization for shake-free results — every capture is effortlessly stunning. Photo and video enhancement features optimize lighting, details, and colors, while 50X Super Zoom brings distant subjects closer with incredible precision. True-to-life visuals are further elevated with Pantone®-validated colors and skin tones, ensuring unmatched authenticity in every frame. Powered by a 50MP main camera with Sony’s advanced LYTIA™ 700C sensor and optical image stabilization, the motorola edge 60 pro blends flagship camera hardware with next-gen AI innovation — giving users professional-level results at every click. The 50MP ultra-wide camera offers a 120º field of view and Macro Vision, enhancing low-light performance by combining pixels for greater brightness and clarity. For extreme close-ups, Macro Vision brings users up to 3.5cm away from their subject. Additionally, the dedicated 3x telephoto camera captures distant subjects with precision, offering optical zoom or up to 50x with AI Super Zoom. With a 73mm equivalent focal length, it’s also perfect for filling the frame with stunning portrait shots. Moreover, an advanced multispectral 3-in-1 light sensor measures the conditions around the user, enhancing the quality of the photos and videos. Coming to the front, the 50MP Hi-Res selfie camera lets users enjoy 4x better low-light sensitivity with Quad Pixel technology, which combines every four pixels into one for brilliant results for better more clear pictures, anywhere anytime.

Display:

Coming to the display, the motorola edge 60 pro flaunts the world’s most immersive 1.5K True Colour Quad-Curved display — the brightest and most vibrant ever on a Motorola phone. The borderless 6.7" pOLED screen (96.47% Screen to body ratio) hits peak brightness of 4500 nits, delivering sharper detail and 13% better resolution than standard Full HD displays with its Super HD (1220p) clarity. Quad-curved edges and ultra-thin bezels offer an uninterrupted, fluid viewing experience, enhanced by an ultra-smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a rapid 300Hz touch rate for stunning responsiveness.Colors pop with wide DCI-P3 coverage and Pantone Validated calibration, ensuring accurate real-world color representation, including true-to-life skin tones. Thanks to Smart Water Touch, the display remains functional even in rain, while DC Dimming and SGS Eye Protection help minimize eye strain. Completing the experience, Dolby Atmos®-powered stereo speakers deliver deep bass, crystal clarity, and immersive spatial sound for the ultimate audio-visual performance

Design & Durability:

The motorola edge 60 pro features a flawlessly quad-curved design, where the curved front glass blends seamlessly into the back for a sleek, ergonomic grip that feels incredible in hand. Designed in collaboration with the Pantone Color Institute™, it comes in three specially curated shades — PANTONE Shadow, Dazzling Blue, and Sparkling Grape — putting users at the forefront of global color trends. A premium leather-inspired texture offers a soft, tactile feel while resisting everyday wear, while the nylon-inspired finish in Dazzling Blue color combines sophistication with added durability. Built for real-world adventures, the motorola edge 60 pro is IP68/IP69 rated for protection against dust, dirt, sand, and high-pressure water, and can survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes. It meets military-grade durability standards (MIL-801H), withstanding extreme temperatures from -20°C to 60°C, up to 95% humidity, and accidental drops from heights of up to 1.5 meters. Strengthened with Corning® Gorilla® Glass 7i, it's engineered to be twice as tough while maintaining an elegant, sophisticated look

The motorola edge 60 pro delivers flagship-level, AI-boosted performance with the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Extreme chipset - which includes optimizations that deliver a noticeably smooth experience with AnTuTu scores up to 1,490,490.*  Built on ultra-efficient 4nm technology, with CPU speeds up to 3.35GHz, it powers seamless multitasking backed by up to 12GB of blazing-fast LPDDR5X RAM. Paired with up to 256GB UFS 4.0 storage, users get ultra-fast read/write speeds and ample space for everything.To keep things cool during intense use, it features 8 advanced thermal components, including a massive 4,473mm² vapor chamber for faster heat dissipation — ensuring peak performance without overheating

The motorola edge 60 pro offers the world's highest battery rating after receiving DXOMARK’s Gold Label, so you can fully maximize your day. It packs a powerful 6000mAh battery that delivers all-day power with ease. When it’s time to recharge, the 90W TurboPower™ charger included in the box gives users approximately 45 hours of power in just a few minutes, so users can spend less time waiting and more time doing. And for those who prefer cable-free experience, the edge 60 pro also supports 15W wireless charging.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. T.M. Narasimhan, Managing Director, Motorola India said “At Motorola, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation while staying deeply connected to the evolving needs of our consumers. With the launch of the motorola edge 60 pro, we are proud to introduce a device that brings together a revolutionary, contextually aware and personalised AI experience through moto AI, an unparalleled imaging experience and flagship grade display, battery, performance and durability. This launch marks another significant step in our journey to offer premium, meaningful technology experiences that empower users to do more, create more, and express themselves more effortlessly”

Complementing moto ai is Hello UI, a customizable interface that lets users truly make the device their own. From fonts and colors to icons, users can personalize every aspect of their experience. Intuitive gestures like twist to open the camera or tap to launch apps make navigation effortless. Features like Family Space create a safe, kid-friendly environment with screen time controls and content filters. Meanwhile, Smart Connect extends the phone’s capabilities to external displays or PCs, offering seamless multitasking across screens. All of this is secured by Moto Secure, a centralized hub for managing privacy and protection settings—giving users total control and peace of mind.

The device comes with Android 15 out of the box and promises 3 years of OS and 4 years of security updates.

Availability:

The motorola edge 60 pro will be available in two storage configurations of 8GB RAM or 12GB RAM with 256GB storage in three stunning Pantone™ Curated colour variants- PANTONE Dazzling Blue, PANTONE Shadow and PANTONE Sparkling Grape. The smartphone is available for pre-order starting today, 30th April and will go on sale from 7th May 2025, 12PM onwards on Flipkart, Motorola.in and leading retail stores across India.

Preorder starts today on Flipkart

Launch Price:

For 8GB+256GB variant  

Launch Price: INR 29,999

For 12GB+256GB variant,

Launch Price: INR 33,999

Operator Offers:

To know more about the product visit:   

Flipkart - https://www.flipkart.com/motorola-edge60-pro-coming-soon-store

Motorola - https://www.flipkart.com/motorola-edge-60-pro/p/itmbe844b03e063b?pid=MOBH9C9JNBGHUVS7

Fossil Celebrates Women Who Do It All With A Heartfelt Mother’s Day Experience In Mumbai

Ahead of Mother’s Day, Fossil, a global leader in lifestyle accessories, brought a unique and personalized experience at The Late Checkout in Lower Parel, Mumbai for guests to pause, unwind, and celebrate the women who shape our lives, with an immersive and stylish afternoon. The event brought together a diverse mix of young moms, influencers, and fashion stylists for an afternoon of interactive experiences, style showcases, and playful moments.

At the heart of the celebration was Fossil’s new Harlow collection, the brand’s spotlight for Mother's Day 2025. Known for its elegant design and bold personality, the Harlow watch was showcased in a larger-than-life installation, making for a striking statement at the event. Attendees were invited to personalise their own Harlow timepiece at the Fossil Personalisation Cart, where complimentary engravings added a unique touch to each watch—transforming it into a sentimental keepsake.

Johnson Verghese, Managing Director, Fossil India, commented, “Celebrating Mother’s Day goes beyond just gifting — it’s about acknowledging presence, strength, and unwavering love. The ‘Unwind’ afternoon was thoughtfully curated as a space for guests to pause, celebrate themselves, and personalise something truly timeless.

This experience captured the essence of who we are as a brand: timeless, expressive, and deeply personal. The Harlow collection became more than a product — it stood as a symbol of appreciation, elegance, and meaningful storytelling. At Fossil, we take pride in creating moments that honour women in ways that are both heartfelt and stylish.”

The evening featured a range of exciting elements, including time tricks performed by Naman Anand, an illusionist who captivated guests and sparked their imaginations. Attendees were also treated to a Fossil-branded gelato cart that delighted guests. The event was further brought to life by a talented female DJ, setting the perfect mood with renowned influencers in attendance including Ruhee Dosani, Barkha Singh, Alanna Panday, amongst others.

As the event drew to a close, guests left not only with their customised Harlow timepieces but also with cherished memories of a truly immersive and engaging experience. Fossil’s Mother’s Day celebration was a perfect blend of personalisation, playful indulgence, and style, reflecting the brand’s commitment to creating meaningful moments for its audience. 

While the spotlight was on Harlow, Fossil’s complete Mother’s Day collection offers something special for every kind of mom. The brand reintroduces its iconic watch ring with a modern twist—available in a variety of colors and featuring a bold, feminine design with 5 ATM water resistance, perfect for everyday elegance.

One of the standout pieces is the Raquel Butterfly Watch—a true tribute to transformation and grace. The rectangular gold-tone case frames a stunning abalone shell dial, brought to life by a delicately applied butterfly motif.

Fossil’s range of stylish bags has something for everyone. The Jolie Small Crossbody, crafted in chevron fabric, is the perfect companion for warm-weather outings. Meanwhile, the Jessie Bucket Shoulder Bag stands out with its hand-polished Italian acrylic beads, designed to mimic semi-precious gems for a one-of-a-kind finish. For those who love jewellery, the Fossil Heritage collection features bold, statement-making designs. 

From personalized timepieces to thoughtfully crafted accessories, Fossil’s Mother’s Day collection celebrates every kind of mom—bold, stylish, and radiant.

Available at select online and offline stores

About Fossil:

Fossil is a leading global lifestyle accessories brand inspired by creativity and ingenuity, dedicated to connecting people to what matters most: time. Fossil takes pride in creating timeless and exceptionally crafted watches, leather goods and jewelry—designed to accompany you on every journey life presents. As a trailblazer in the industry, Fossil brings innovation and style to its accessories, while also working diligently to Make Time For Good™, a platform created to enact positive change for the brand’s people and communities.